Steelers Cut Former Lions Running Back from Practice Squad

The Steelers have released running back Greg Bell from their practice squad, the team announced on Tuesday.

Bell’s release is part of two other moves that saw cornerback Luq Barcoo released and wide receiver Jacob Copeland signed in the wake of multiple injuries that the Steelers faced on Sunday to Diontae Johnson and Cam Heyward.

Bell was one of two running backs on the practice squad along with Qadree Ollison. His release keeps Ollision and Zander Horvath as the only backfield-capable players on the practice squad. Anthony McFarland, Najee Harris, and Jaylen Warren remain the other players on the roster at running back.

Bell joined the Steelers on August 1st after the season-ending shoulder injury to Alfonzo Graham. He showcased his receiving ability and quick shiftiness in training camp, rising up the depth chart to the fourth running back by the end of training camp. He returned to Pittsburgh after clearing waivers.

Bell came out of San Diego State and had a stint in 2022 with the Detroit Lions. But was injured and suffered a hamstring in training camp. He would return for 2023, but the team waived him on July 22nd. Over his college career at three different stops, Bell racked up over 4,000 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns. In his final season with the Aztecs, he posted over 1000 rushing yards with the team.

Bell could not spark much offense in his three games with the Steelers during the preseason. On 18 rushes, he notched only 34 yards for 1.9 yards per carry. However, Bell did power 31 yards after contact, showcasing his contact balance and ability to create even with his subpar blocking for most of the preseason. That tracks for Bell, who proved throughout his college career that he could find hidden yardage. Bell also plays on special teams units, totaling 12 snaps overall, but ten against Tampa Bay.